How to Keep Your House Warm With Hardwood Floors

One of the most desirable home design features in the real estate market in Toronto is hardwood flooring. Most buyers prefer solid wood over other types of floor coverings. Many people choose to replace existing carpet with some type of hardwood flooring. However, some homeowners have lingering concerns about how to maintain warmth without the use of carpet. Learn more about how to keep your hardwood floors warm in the winter.

Radiant Heat

A great way to warm up your whole house is through radiant heat. Radiant heat is one of fastest growing heating methods in residential properties. However, many people do not realize that it can be installed under wood floors.

How It Works

Radiant heat is a system of hot water tubes or electric coils. It is positioned underneath the flooring. It has the ability to add warmth to your entire home by heating your floor. While some may be concerned that the energy costs would be higher with radiant heat, the opposite is often true. That is because it can be pre-programmed, allowing for less fluctuation in usage. It can also rely on a wide range of heat sources. These include energy efficient options including solar and geothermal.

Types of Wood

It is important to choose the right type of wood flooring when you are having radiant heat installed in your home. Consult with an expert at hardwood flooring installation in Toronto in order to select the best species of wood. Certain wood species are more accommodating of heat than others. It is also essential to choose the right thickness and width of plank. Many experts recommend using interlocking floors over glue or nail installation methods. With interlocking installation, any areas of damage can be replaced.

Installation Information

Always check with the manufacturer of the floor you choose before installing it over radiant heat. Also check for limitations with your heating system. There are certain types of radiant heat that are not compatible with wood flooring. Additionally, some types of engineered hardwood are not designed to be used in this manner. Avoid rapid fluctuations in temperature as this can cause irreversible damage.

Other Warming Methods

Another way to warm up your hardwood floors is through the use of area rugs. These are an easy and affordable way to add heat to your floors. Many people choose to only use rugs during the winter months. Area rugs are easy to clean and store. They can provide a focal design element to any room. Since they are often used seasonally, they can be a great way to vary the decor of your home.

Benefits of Area Rugs

Area rugs do more than just keep your feet warm. They can also protect the longevity of your hardwood flooring. By warming the floor they can reduce the amount of seasonal contraction of the wood. They also prevent damage in areas that are subject to high traffic. Use a rug mat in order to prevent discoloration or scratches.

Canada’s premier hardwood flooring store. Proudly selling Hardwood Flooring in Toronto since 1977. We have hardwood, laminates, engineered, and exotic flooring; we also provide hardwood flooring installation.

Canada's premier hardwood flooring store. Proudly selling Hardwood Flooring in Toronto since 1977. We have hardwood, laminates, engineered, and exotic flooring; we also provide hardwood flooring ins